Republicans increasingly say finances are worse under President Donald Trump, according to new polling data released by the Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos, which highlights mounting economic concerns within the party itself. A July survey of 2,648 U.S. adults shows that 65 percent of respondents disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy, compared to 33 percent who approve. This marks a notable shift from an earlier April survey, which showed lower levels of disapproval. The findings suggest a deepening divide in public perception of the administration’s economic policies, particularly among its base. The survey further indicates that affordability has become a central issue for many Americans. Nearly two-thirds of households describe groceries as unaffordable, and 59 percent believe they lack a “good chance” of improving their standard of living. Only 17 percent of adults say they feel “better off” since Trump took office, with 43 percent feeling worse off and 39 percent remaining “about the same.” These figures reflect a broad trend of economic anxiety, with few individuals experiencing tangible improvements in their financial situations. Within the Republican Party, the situation is even more pronounced. Among Republicans, 34 percent still claim to feel on stronger financial footing, but the percentage of those who feel worse off has risen to 18 percent from 13 percent. The proportion of Republicans who feel “about the same” has slightly decreased, dropping from 52 percent to 48 percent. This suggests that internal divisions within the party are growing, with increasing numbers of Republicans expressing dissatisfaction with the administration’s economic performance. Notably, the more moderate wing of the GOP appears to be especially concerned. Non-MAGA Republicans, who tend to hold more centrist views, show a sharper decline in optimism. The share of this group that feels worse off has increased from 22 percent in April to 35 percent in July, while the percentage claiming to be better off has fallen from 23 percent to 16 percent. In contrast, MAGA Republicans, who align more closely with Trump, show somewhat greater confidence, with 44 percent indicating they feel things have improved, up from 40 percent in April. However, even among MAGA supporters, the number who feel worse off has dipped slightly, from 10 percent to nine percent. Economic challenges are compounded by external factors. While inflation has eased slightly to 3.5 percent in June, it remains above the Federal Reserve’s target of 2 percent. Energy prices have surged again, pushing nationwide average gas prices above $4 per gallon. This comes amid renewed tensions between the U.S. and Iran, which have disrupted efforts to stabilize domestic energy markets. Despite the administration’s promises to ease energy costs, consumers continue to face higher expenses. Public sentiment toward the administration’s economic stewardship is equally troubling. A May CNN poll found that 77 percent of respondents, including a majority of Republicans, blame the president for rising costs. This reflects a broader sense of frustration, as a Harris Poll survey conducted in late May and early June revealed that 95 percent of Americans believe the country is in an affordability “crisis.” The same poll noted that 57 percent of Americans believe the economy is getting worse, compared to 46 percent in February. Conversely, the share of those who think the economy is improving has dropped significantly, from 28 percent to 16 percent. As the 2026 midterms approach, the financial landscape continues to pose challenges for both parties. Republicans, despite holding a substantial war chest of over $1 billion, face uncertainty about whether this funding will effectively support their campaign strategies. With economic concerns intensifying, the upcoming elections may hinge heavily on how well the party addresses these pressing issues.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
United States
